M.Arch Syllabus & Subjects List 2026: Download Semester-wise Syllabus PDF

Updated on Mar 1, 2023 01:58 IST
Bhavya Jain

Bhavya JainContent Author

MArch courses is all about design and development of a building or structure. Courses are offered at the UG, PG, Diploma, Certificate and Doctorate levels. This course is focused on theoretical as well as practical subjects with core and elective subjects which help candidates understand the concepts of Architecture. Candidates should know that syllabus and the curriculum can be different according to the course levels. Course duration can be from 6 months to 3 years but then again it depends on the course level.

Core Subjects

Candidates can see the table below:

Semester 1

Subject

Details

Urban Design

Candidates learn planning studies for urban designing by observing urban environments and providing urban housing, renewal and regeneration.

Large Span Structures for Architectural Application

It deals with the designing of space frames, structural systems, braced folded structures, tensile structures and space structures with changing geometries.

Legal Framework for Urban Infrastructure Project

The objective of this course is to introduce candidates to the legal framework and standards such as the National Building Code of India 2016 and regulations provided by national and international agencies. It also deals with the legal principles guiding large-scale development and sports facilities.

Advanced Computer Studio

Candidates are introduced to the REVIT software popularly used for architectural design and structural design and successfully converting 2-D designs into 3-D designs.

Semester 2

Subject

Details

Structures and Services in High-Rise Buildings

The course introduces a separate typology in architecture- tall buildings, their construction, installation of firefighting systems and their impact on the environment and urban setting.

Contemporary Process in Architecture

It analyses the concepts such as fractals, Multi-source synthesis, key-shape animation, Cellular Automata, digital architecture and case studies on world-renowned architects.

Urban Infrastructure Projects

The course deals with designing urban infrastructure projects such as SEZs, transport connectivity, growth of neighbourhood communities and integration of essential services with buildings.

Semester 3

Subject

Details

New Urbanism

The course familiarizes students with the concept of urban planning, new urbanism, rural-to-urban transformation and large-scale cluster development in agricultural lands.

Urban Landscape

Candidates learn about structures of open spaces, urban landscape design, maintenance of public spaces and designing of public parks, greenways and biological corridors.

Research Methodology in Architecture

It deals with the application of research methods in the formulation of the research question, hypothesis, data collection, analysis and inference. It also deals with methods of usage of computers in research and mathematical modelling and their limitations.

Performance Evaluation Tools for Sustainable Buildings

Learners acquire basic skills in building performance evaluation and modelling of passive systems and active systems. They are able to make a post-occupancy evaluations and advanced building simulations.

High-Rise Buildings

Candidates learn how to conceptualise ideas to design high-rise buildings and understand their planning concerns such as disaster and environmental risks.

Semester 4

Subject

Details

Thesis/Dissertation

Candidates have to submit a dissertation on any research topic towards successful completion of the course. They have to also appear for a viva-voce, justifying the skills learnt over the years.

Elective Courses

Subjects

Details

Sustainable Development

The course provides exposure to the traditional wisdom and passive techniques of creating a sustainable design. It also deals with the principles of sustainability, urban impact on the environment and planning aspects to minimise the environmental impact of buildings.

Green Building Strategies for Tall Buildings

An introductory course on green revolution in architecture, maintaining daylighting efficiency, recycling of resources, info-modelling and construction of buildings using smart technologies.

Disaster Management

Learners understand the concept of disasters, the disaster management cycle, principles of elementary seismology and seismic design. The most important learning outcome is related to earthquake-resistant designs.

Environmental Strategies

The course deals with the strategies for environmental protection, environmental economics, Environmental Impact Assessment cycle and Environmental Auditing.

New Age Materials and Construction

Candidates are exposed to new varieties of construction materials and curtain walls, ensuring material efficiency and efficient construction techniques.

Façade Technologies for Buildings

 

The course introduces the application of a façade systems by implementing glass, glazing and their structural integrity. It also deals with the advanced façade and their building performance.

Books and Authors for M.Arch

Candidates can see the table below:

Book

Author

Description

Urban Design Toolkit

Ministry of the Environment

This toolkit has been developed by the Ministry of Environment and provides the tools for community participation, raising awareness, implementation, planning and design and research and analysis.

Building Structures

Malcolm Millais

A celebrated work on the history of building structures and how these concepts are applied to simple building plans. The author explains how to do calculations for structures and how to design a structural design project.

REVIT Handbook: A Guide to Building Information Modelling for Owners, Engineers

C Eastman, R Sacks, K Liston

A treatise on Building Information Modelling, which provides information on the methods to design and construct a building using a  digital format. It helps in making a design plan more customer-friendly and enhances it from two-dimensional to three-dimensional graphics.

The Guide Book of Sustainable Design

Sandra Mendler, William Odell

The authors have compiled case studies on the world’s famous architects, planners and designers, their design strategies and sustainable architecture methods. The guide also provides methods to increase customer satisfaction and material selection for resource conservation.

Skyscrapers-Structure and Design

Wells Mathew

The author explains the engineering and desig behind tall buildings and skyscrapers of the world. He explains how these buildings are designed to withstand earthquake or wind or fire hazards and analyses the tall buildings of the world.

Table of contents
  • Popular M.Arch (Master of Architecture) Colleges in India
  • Popular Private M.Arch (Master of Architecture) Colleges in India
  • Popular M.Arch (Master of Architecture) Specializations
  • Most Popular Courses

Popular M.Arch (Master of Architecture) Colleges in India

Following are the most popular M.Arch (Master of Architecture) Colleges in India. Learn more about these M.Arch (Master of Architecture) colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
20 K
11 LPA
1 Course
6 LPA
4 Courses
1.16 L
7.2 LPA
6 Courses
9.39 L
7.5 LPA
4 Courses
1.8 L
8 LPA
1 Course
1.4 L
6 LPA

Popular Private M.Arch (Master of Architecture) Colleges in India

3.64 L
6 Courses
9.39 L
7.5 LPA
1 Course
1.96 L

M.Arch Applications open. Apply Now

2 Courses
5.0
5.0
6 Courses
1.73 L - 3.4 L
4.6 - 5 LPA
1 Course
1.96 L
4 LPA

M.Arch Applications open. Apply Now

Popular M.Arch (Master of Architecture) Specializations

Following are the most popular M.Arch (Master of Architecture) Specializations . You can explore the top Colleges offering these Specializations by clicking the links below.

Popular Specializations

qna

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 2 days ago

No, a drawing test is not mandatory. UG courses like BArch and MDes require physical drawing test because these are the first foundational courses. But since MArch is a PG course, exams like GATE, NATA or CUET PG do not require drawing tests.

B

Bhavya Jain

Contributor-Level 8

Answered 2 days ago

Master of Architecture has over 15 specializations in India. Out of these the following are the top 5 most popular specializations selected by students:

  • Urban Design & Planning
  • Landscape Architecture
  • Architectural Conservation
  • Interior Architecture
  • Computational Design & Digital Architecture

B

Bhavya Jain

Contributor-Level 8

Answered 2 weeks ago

The score needed would depend on the category, round and chosen specialisation. For the General AI category, the round 3 cutoff ranged from 358 to 556. Hence, this category students need a score of at least 358 to be qualified for admission. 

See the table below to know the minimum score required by

...Read more

N

Neerja Rohatgi

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

Number of students placed during Jadavpur University MArch placements is mentioned below:

Particulars

MArch Placement Statistics 2023

MArch Placement Statistics 2024

MArch Placement Statistics 2025

Number of graduating students

7

5

8

Students placed

7

4

8

Students selected for higher studies

0

1

0

K

Krishnendu Chatterjee

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

Jadavpur University MArch placement highlights over the past two years are mentioned below:

Particulars

MArch Placement Statistics 2024

MArch Placement Statistics 2025

Median package

INR 9 LPA

INR 10.8 LPA

Number of graduating students

5

8

Students placed

4

8

Students selected for higher studies

1

0

P

Pooja Divya

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 4 weeks ago

Candidates must pass graduation degree with a minimum of 50% aggregate (45% aggregate for candidate from Karnataka belonging to SC/ ST and category-1) from a recognised university to apply for M.Arch at Ramaiah Institute of Technology.

N

Nishtha Shukla

Guide-Level 15

Answered 4 weeks ago

Yes, if an Indian student has missed the September intake, they should progress quickly and apply for the March intake at Coventry. 

But, the September is the main intake in the UK and also aligns with the academic calendar and placement drives. 

D

Divya Shukla

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch offers a very strong academic foundation at a lower cost. Many private colleges are much more expensive but don't have the same level of recognition. Here, you follow official university ordinances that are respected nationwide. The focus is on real learning and

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch uses a modern credit-based system that is very flexible. Unlike some colleges with rigid schedules, you can choose electives that interest you. The programme also puts a lot of weight on research and dissertations. This prepares you for high-level jobs or teachin

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch employs experienced professors and industry experts. Many have years of experience in both teaching and professional practice. They bring real-world knowledge into the classroom. This level of mentorship is often missing in newer or smaller private colleges. Lear

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

A Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch student can also apply for scholarships from outside sources. This includes government schemes or private trust funds. You just need to get permission from the Principal or Director first. This allows you to combine different sources of aid to cover your costs.

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch awards prizes and certificates for excellence in various subjects. If you do great work in your dissertation or seminars, you might be recognised. These awards are officially announced by the university to celebrate student achievements. They look fantastic on yo

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

A Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch graduate can work as a senior architect or design consultant. Many find great roles in top architectural firms or government departments. You can also specialize in interior design or environmental planning. Your advanced skills allow you to lead large building

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Both Interior Design and Environmental Design from the Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch are in high demand. Companies today want architects who understand sustainability and modern interiors. You will be ready for niche jobs that pay better than general architecture roles. Your specialised knowl

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch course session starts around August/September. An orientation programme is going to be conducted to introduce you to teachers and classmates. Teaching period is 90 days per semester. It is important to attend classes from the first day.

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

After the results, Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch counselling begins shortly after. You will be called to choose your specialisation based on your rank. This usually happens a few weeks before the new session starts. You must bring all your original documents for verification. Successful candi

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Entrance exams for Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch often take place in the May-June. The exact dates are announced by the university well in advance. If you are using GATE scores, keep those dates in mind too. Once the results are out, the merit list is published quickly. Following the schedule

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

FOA- AKTU MArch students need to complete the course within four years. A student who has failed twice in the first year for any reason (non-appearance or he/she being not permitted to appear in semester examinations), shall not be allowed to continue his/her studies further. 

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch does not permit admission through migration from other universities. You must apply as a fresh candidate for the first year. This rule helps maintain the consistency of the teaching and credit system. Every student must complete the full curriculum designed by th

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch selection is done through entrance tests. The university may conduct its own test or look at your GATE scores. Your performance in these exams determines your rank on the merit list. High scores are important because seats are limited and competition is high.  

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch keeps intake low to maintain a high level of excellence. Architectural education requires a lot of one-on-one interaction in the studio. Small groups make it easier to have deep discussions with visiting experts. It also ensures that resources like labs and libra

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Vacant seats in Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch are usually filled through subsequent counselling rounds. The university follows a strict merit-based process to fill every spot. If you are on the waiting list, you might still get a chance. Seat allotments are done according to the official meri

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch tuition fees range from INR 1.41 Lacs to 1.47 Lacs for two years. This covers your academic costs and access to campus facilities. It is a very affordable option for a high-quality postgraduate programme from one of the top institutions in the region. 

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Joining Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch also gives you the option to stay in the hostel. The hostel fee is approximately INR 52,000 for the full two-year duration. Living on campus is very helpful because architectural work often requires long hours. It saves you travel time and keeps you close

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Every Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch fee component is usually clearly listed by the university. There are no major hidden costs, but you might pay small exam or library fees. It is always good to check the latest fee brochure before paying. The university follows official ordinances to keep th

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch programme offers specialised tracks in Interior Design and Environmental Design. It is a full-time, two-year course that blends creative art with technical skills. Students learn to handle large investment projects and solve modern building issues.

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch in Environmental Design focuses on sustainable and eco-friendly building solutions. It teaches students how to create projects that respect the natural world. You will learn to resolve complex issues related to urban growth. The programme aims for contextual exce

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Choosing Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch in Interior Design helps you master the art of changing living spaces. You'll learn to make rooms more effective for daily use. The MArch course focuses on both theory and studio work to build your confidence. It prepares you to design interiors that are

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch curriculum follows a Choice Based Credit System over four semesters. You need to earn a total of 72 credits to graduate. Each semester involves 18 credits of intensive study. The plan includes lectures, tutorials, and plenty of practical studio work.

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Faculty of Architecture - AKTU MArch dissertation helps you to explore a research topic in depth. You will work with a supervisor and write a detailed report with your findings. Working on a dissertation helps you develop advanced problem-solving skills.

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

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